If you're interested in hearing my Duke GradX talk "How does documentary media transform how we see the natural world?", tune in to the live coverage around 3:10pm for my 5 minute presentation followed by a Q&A.

Dear Felix, Thank you so much for continuing to bring joy to me and many others on a daily basis. It truly means the world to me, and you've kept my spirits high helped me lighten up a lot. Please don't let the hate get you down. Your positivity means so much to me. Love you bro. (Brofist)﻿

Media organization and production, data acquisition, and public outreach through a client-driven experience at Duke’s Nicholas School of the Environment for use in the organization (either through web-based programs, or corporate use at National Geographic).

Mote Marine Laboratory

Summer Research Intern, 2013 - 2013

Field surveys via dorsal fin photography and ongoing data collection for resident bottlenose dolphin species in the Sarasota Bay. Aided in organization, design, and production of a twelve-part two-minute short series covering a range of topics in regards to Sarasota’s resident dolphins.

Matthew is an environmental documentarian and explorer that addresses a wide scope of topics about the natural world, ranging from biodiversity to environmental issues. His work involvement includes world-renown organizations ranging from National Geographic to the USDA. Matthew is devoted to creating powerful media content that speaks the beauty and importance of conserving the Earth. His work takes on a variety of forms and styles ranging from technical to fine arts.

Introduction

Science has fascinated me and fueled my thirst for exploration for as long as I can remember. From blowing up the bathroom cabinet when I was eight to participating in the annual science fair, science has become an integral part of my personality. I joined the Boy Scouts of America when I was twelve, hoping to learn about the Earth, wilderness survival, and to have fun. After four memorable years, I achieved the coveted rank of Eagle Scout. Among other values, my scouting experiences taught me environmental awareness, leadership skills, and appreciation of our natural resources. Before the close of my scouting career, I had the opportunity to go to Philmont Scout Ranch with my Dad. For two weeks we backpacked over 75 miles at the base of the Rocky Mountains, lugging fifty pounds of only the essentials upon our backs. I had never seen land so beautiful before, and I learned more about myself during that time than any other. Experiencing the beauty of Philmont was both life-changing and eye-opening; from miniscule details to vast expanses of wilderness, I formed a deep connection with the environment that gave rise to my calling in life. Our trip led to my decision to become a conservation ecologist and documentary photographer.

Growing up, I loved going through my Dad’s National Geographic Magazine collection. I spent hours absorbed in the awe-inspiring photography and stories they held, wondering what it was like to be an explorer, and what it felt like to discover things. I would read of travels across the Earth to places where the abundance and diversity of life was simply astounding. I eventually inherited his collection, and was free to use them for inspiration. Before long the walls of my room were covered with tear-outs from the magazines, and I yearned for a camera to document my daily exploration of the outdoors. My first camera was a three megapixel Vivitar, a Christmas gift from my uncle when I was only fourteen. Finally, I could pursue my desire to see nature on a deeper level. I wanted to share the beauty of the natural world with others in order to raise awareness about the importance of conservation. My camera traveled with me everywhere, from down the street to across the country. It had become a part of my very being.

Macro photography became my passion as a boy, and the deeper into nature I explored, the more fascinated I became. During my time in undergraduate studies, I majored in environmental science and focused on conservation. As my skills in the sciences grew, so did my photographic endeavors. I looked to the ground and trees, where micro-universes teemed with undiscovered lands that I yearned to explore. I had finally discovered my calling in life was to combine these two passions as a conservationist and documentary photographer.

From the microscopic to entire biomes, our planet is an infinitely complex web of connections and a delicate home to all living things. My life goal is to continuously foster stronger appreciation and action throughout global society to conserve the beauty of the Earth.

Education

Duke University

MFA in Experimental and Documentary Arts, 2013 - present

Florida Southern College

Environmental Studies, 2009 - 2012

Basic Information

Gender

Male

We were unable to fetch any YouTube videos at this time. Please try again.